Top Chef Wants You To Dine Out For HIV

Domenic Laurenzo supports Dining Out For Life/AIDS Foundation Houston,  “Because it’s one of the most worthwhile causes of our city and our times.  Being a native Houstonian I am well aware of the particularly devastating impact that HIV has had on our city over the last few decades.  Helping in this small way by participating in Dining Out For Life is the least that I can do to help those who have been kind and gracious to my own family over the years.  Supporting the community as a whole in this great cause makes me feel like part of a great big team that is pulling together to help our fellow Houstonians.”

Fried Fish Tacos

Laurenzo says the experience of dining on that night is different,  “We have larger crowds that come out on this special night to participate in the event and contribute their small part to such a worthy cause.  The energy is one of support and happiness as people share in their efforts together. The incredible impact that's being made is overwhelming.”

Old School Carnitas

Laurenzo is passionate about the cause because he’s had many friends over the years that have been affected by HIV.  “Being in the restaurant business, I have come to know many friends and I am fortunate to have such wonderful customers that support me and my family and what we do. They have been so loyal and supportive of us over the years.  I have in turn shown equal support and love to all my friends and customers, many of whom have been impacted in some way by HIV.  They are like family to me and I will always do what I can to help.”Laurenzo was born in Houston, and after high school he chased his athletic dreams in professional golf for 8 years.  He’s lived in Florida and has traveled around Europe during his time in golf.  Upon bankruptcy of his family’s business, he quit professional golf to help his family.

Veggie Fajitas 

Laurenzo is the executive chef and president of El Tiempo Cantina and Laurenzo’s Restaurant. He was born and raised in Houston. Following high school graduation, he pursued a career in golf in Florida, and eventually moved back to Houston to help with the family business. Laurenzo held many positions within the Ninfa’s organization, from dishwasher to manager. In 2001, he attended the Alain & Marie LeNotre Culinary Institute and in 2013 he opened El Tiempo Cantina on Navigation.

About Dining Out For Life:

On one day in April — Thursday, April 26, 2018 — Houston-area restaurants donate a percentage of sales to AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc. (AFH) through their participation in the nationwide Dining Out for Life event. Gillman Subaru is the presenting sponsor for this year’s event, which is hosted by chairs Michael Pearce, Jessica Rossman and Travis Torrence.

Guests can support AIDS Foundation Houston, Inc. by enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner throughout the day at one of

​ A portion of the proceeds support AFH’s stabilizing programs that help thousands of Houstonians living with HIV/AIDS, and prevention services that reduce new HIV transmissions. 

“Dining Out for Life makes it easy to do something good for the community. All you have to do is enjoy a meal out with friends and family while supporting a good cause,” said Kelly Young, Chief Executive Officer of AIDS Foundation Houston. “Local restaurants owners are so incredibly generous and we appreciate that they care enough to do this event annually. The success of this event allows us to increase awareness and reduce the impact of HIV in the Houston community."

In 1991, an ActionAIDS volunteer in Philadelphia created Dining Out for Life. Today, the event is produced in 60 cities throughout the United States and Canada, with more than 3,000 restaurants donating a portion of their proceeds from their designated day of dining. AIDS Foundation Houston has participated in the event since the inaugural year, raising thousands of dollars for local HIV/AIDS services.

For more information or to find one of the over 40 participating restaurants, click here.